Liposuction: 5 Insider Tips from Dr. Giuffrida

There are a lot of misconceptions floating around about liposuction. Many people think that it is a weight loss procedure akin to gastric bypass surgery. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Other people think that liposuction is a run-of-the-mill procedure that can be performed just as well buy one plastic surgeon as the next. This is also completely false.

There are a lot of options when it comes to liposuction, including what type of procedure you get, who you get it from, and whether it’s appropriate for your situation. Here are my five top tips for anyone considering liposuction in Santa Monica or Venice Beach.

Do your research

There are several different types of liposuction procedures, and some are more invasive than others. Many plastic surgeons will specialize in a particular type of liposuction. I, for example, specialize in VASER lipo, a form of liposuction that uses ultrasound technology to melt away excess fat with extreme precision. This form of liposuction is particularly popular among men because it allows the surgeon to do away with unwanted fat while also creating a more chiseled and defined physique.

Find a doctor that you’re comfortable with

While you’re researching the procedure itself, you should also do research on potential plastic surgeons. Look for one who is board certified in plastic surgery and who has a lot of experience performing the procedure you’re most interested in. In addition, you should look for someone that you feel comfortable talking to, because you’re going to need to discuss your most intimate concerns about your body. Find someone who puts you at ease and doesn’t make you feel judged or uncomfortable. You should also find someone who will respect your privacy and confidentiality as a patient.

Understand what’s possible with liposuction

Liposuction is not a weight loss procedure. It’s a way of shaping and sculpting the body by removing excess fat from localized areas like the abdomen, arms, chest, and neck. Liposuction is for generally healthy people who are unable to burn excess fat in trouble areas through diet and exercise alone. With VASER liposuction, it can also increase the appearance of muscle tone, leaving you with a more chiseled physique. Not every area in the body can be treated with liposuction, however. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about the possibilities.

Follow your postoperative care instructions

You’ll notice immediate results after a liposuction treatment, but those results will only continue to improve if you adhere to your postoperative care instructions. Give your body the rest that it needs and wear your compression garments for as long as you are told. Once you are able to resume a regular exercise routine, do so. Liposuction helps prevent fat from returning to the treated areas, but it isn’t a miracle cure. If you stop eating right and exercising, you could gain back the fat that you lost.

Ask a lot of questions

As with any procedure, it’s important to have all of the information upfront. Choose a plastic surgeon who will take the time to answer every last one of your questions, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. It’s essential that you feel comfortable and fully informed before undergoing any medical procedure, and liposuction is no different. If you ever feel pressured to move forward, get out of that office and look for a plastic surgeon who has your best interests at heart.

After establishing a successful plastic surgery practice on the East Coast and accumulating over 20 years of experience, I decided to open a new office in Venice Beach. I'm thrilled to be here and cannot wait to work with new patients in Los Angeles. In my spare time, you’re most likely to find me at the yoga studio. I’m an avid yoga practitioner, and recently completed my 200-hour teacher training through the Yoga Alliance. I also enjoy surfing, cycling, and spending time with my two sons.